Compassion for Paradise

Support for California communities destroyed by wildfires

Imagine your life possessions being destroyed in the blink of an eye. This is what life is like in Paradise, and throughout the many communities virtually destroyed by California’s wildfires in late 2018.

When we heard how Awakened Yoga and other studios are providing free classes to help heal the community, provide more yoga supplies and help compensate teachers for the overflow, we knew we could help.

Our goal is to mobilize studios around the country to come together and help fellow yogis and their communities get back on their feet.

Together, we can make a difference.

Robert Schware Co-Founder and Executive DirectorGive Back Yoga Foundation

THREE WAYS TO GET INVOLVED:

Make a donation

With your support, we will provide one year of free yoga classes to Paradise residents and First Responders, as well as purchase yoga equipment for studios destroyed by the fires. Your donation counts!

Host a Donation Class

Join studios across the nation in hosting a donation class, and help us reach our goal of raising $50,000 to support California communities destroyed by wildfires. We have everything you need to get started!

Camp Fire: The deadliest wildfire in California history

On the morning of November 8th, a massive wildfire tore through California mountain communities north of Sacramento. Because it started near Camp Creek Road, it was called “The Camp Fire.” Within a few short hours, the wildfire devoured the town of Paradise (population 27,000) and destroyed nearly 19,000 buildings, businesses and homes.

In spite of this devastation, the yoga community has rallied to support residents of Paradise and the first responders who were critical in ensuring the safety and welfare of Paradise residents. In nearby Chico, for example, Awakened Yoga studio owner Kristi Lopez has offered free classes to all Paradise residents.

“Following natural disasters, the restorative power of yoga should not be underestimated. We know that yoga is a tremendously powerful tool to help those suffering from trauma or PTSD, as well as First Responders and many others,” said Gerry and Nicole Wienholt, co-founders of Yoga Pod.“Once we heard Kristi’s story, and those like her, we felt obligated to bring our community together to help those in need.”